Licensing
The aim of the Licensing service is to protect the public. This is done through the grant or refusal of applications for a licence, consent, permit or registration. This may involve the production of written reports to the Licensing Committee so that they may make decisions where necessary.
For more information, contact us at licensing@darlington.gov.uk
Our service objectives are:
- to ensure applications for grant, renewal or variation of licences are determined in accordance with Council Policy in a timely manner
- before issuing or renewing any licence consult with other agencies and relevant parties
- to ensure that licensees comply with requirements and conditions relating to the licence or registration issued.
Consultation
The Licensing Partnership Group meets monthly. This is attended by Licensing, Trading Standards, Environmental Health and Legal Officers and the Police
Taxi Licensing Liaison Group – meets quarterly with invitation sent to all vehicle proprietors and Police. (Also attended by Transport Planning Officer)
Role of elected Members
The Council itself decides on Licensing Policy which Officers then operate to deliver the service.
The Cabinet Member with the Neighbourhood Services and Community Safety Portfolio, is responsible for licensing.
The Council’s Scrutiny Committees may consider any aspect of licensing for scrutiny.
The Council's Licensing Committee meets every 6 weeks and is made up of thirteen elected members. It has a quasi-judicial role making decisions upon a range of licence applications and reviews. Applications under the Licensing Act 2003 and the Gambling Act 2005 are dealt with by a sub committee of 3 members of the Licensing Committee.